Weekends and school breaks don’t have to mean bored kids and endless screen time. Sarasota is bursting with unique spots where families can connect, burn off energy, and spark a little wonder together.
Let’s get to it.
Sarasota Bay Explorers
If you’re ready to swap screen time for sunshine, Sarasota Bay Explorers is the go-to spot. You climb aboard a 45-foot, Coast Guard-inspected pontoon with covered seating, so you stay cool while cruising Sarasota Bay.
Real marine biologists run the show—no snooze-fest lectures here. They drop a trawl net over the side so you can inspect the cute (and weird) creatures that live on the bay bottom. Then everyone hops off onto a small, uninhabited island for a nature walk. Kids get to quiz the experts on birds or count hermit crabs, and adults stay engaged thanks to snacks and an onboard bathroom.
Tours run year-round unless a Florida storm rolls in, and you can book a private charter if you’ve got a big group. Rates are about $39 for adults, $31 for kids, and infants under two ride free. The Sea Life Encounter cruise lasts just under two hours, and no prior biology knowledge is required—just bring your sense of wonder.
Tibbals Learning Center & Circus Museum at The Ringling
Stepping into the Tibbals Learning Center & Circus Museum at The Ringling feels like joining a behind-the-curtain tour of circus history, with a hands-on twist. Two buildings are packed with activities, from a 42,000-piece miniature circus to balance stations where you try a tiny tightrope (safety mats included). In creative workshops, you can design your own circus poster or end up delightfully covered in glue and paint.
There’s a little something for every age. Toddlers splatter paint during baby art sessions, while older kids speed through scavenger hunts in the galleries. Docents share circus lore like it’s gospel, and most workshops are included with admission. Little ones under six enter free, which helps balance out the ticket price.
With indoor, air-conditioned spaces, it’s the perfect escape from the Florida heat. Whether you’re marveling at miniature tents or testing your balancing act, you’ll find interactive fun at every turn.
Conservatory Park
Conservatory Park brings together playground fun, shaded trails, and wildlife viewing across 55 acres. Little ones can tackle age-appropriate equipment without help, while the winding paved paths are perfect for families to complete a full lap without melting in the sun.
Scattered around the grounds are habitat signs and an outdoor classroom with stone benches—ideal for snack time or an impromptu lesson. Fitness enthusiasts can pause at exercise stations along the trail, and fishing off the dock is catch-and-release only. If you’re in it for wildlife, birdwatching and occasional kayaking clinics keep things interesting.
Parking and admission are free, and all facilities—trails, restrooms, playground, and pavilions—are ADA-friendly. You can reserve a pavilion for $40 to $50 plus tax when you need a gathering spot. In summer, look out for extra programs like camps or fishing clinics, but you’re never required to sign up—just drop in and enjoy the simplicity of the great outdoors.
Big Cat Habitat
You’ve probably heard about Big Cat Habitat in Sarasota—people mention it like it’s a rite of passage. It’s part sanctuary, part zoo, and yes, you can even do yoga near capybaras. The main draw is the animal presentations held in an air-conditioned arena around 1 and 2 pm. They’re both fun and educational without letting you get too close to a tiger.
Beyond big cats, there’s a petting zoo and private encounter options for lemurs, sloths, or even parrots if it rains. Kids aged three to twelve pay $10, under two is free, and parking won’t cost you a penny. The paths are wheelchair accessible, and staff members are clearly passionate about animal care.
Whether you’re marveling at a lion’s roar or giggling at a capybara chewing breakfast, this place keeps surprising you. It’s casual, safe, and manages to delight guests of all ages without any gimmicks—just real animal encounters done right.
Florida Studio Theatre
Florida Studio Theatre feels like a creative clubhouse for the whole family. Located downtown, it offers everything from Mini Movers classes for three-year-olds learning to dance, to improv sessions for teens, and week-long musicals for more seasoned performers.
Most programs cap enrollment at 13 to 15 students, so classes stay personal. Parents can drop off in the morning and return later for a final performance that’s usually the highlight of everyone’s week. Prices vary by age and program length, but scholarships and member discounts make it accessible.
Seasoned pros run every class, and the space follows CDC-friendly safety guidelines. There are sessions for special needs and options for complete beginners or serious stage veterans. Whether your kid wants to nail that jazz routine or try stand-up comedy, Florida Studio Theatre gives them room to grow without the cafeteria-like crowds of big after-school programs.
Siesta Key Aqua Adventures
If you’re craving some water fun, Siesta Key Aqua Adventures has everything lined up for you. They rent single kayaks for under thirty bucks a day, and you can even grab one for a week if you’re up for an upper-body workout. There are paddle boards, bumper boats, and tandem kayaks so parents and kids can team up.
They also run Dolphin Tiki Boat Tours with a twist. You’ll hunt for hidden treasures on a scavenger hunt, and younger guests get to try gem mining. After certain tours, everyone walks away with a sample bag of polished stones, which is a clever way to keep smiles on little faces.
If you’d rather stay dry or dodge an afternoon storm, check out the adventure arcade. Private charters hold up to 49 people, heated boats cruise in cooler months, and life jackets and staff supervision keep safety on point. No matter if you’re in full-on adventure mode or just looking to chill, this spot makes it easy for everyone to join the fun.
Sarasota Art Museum
When you need a creative family day, Sarasota Art Museum steps up with hands-on art for all ages. On Wednesdays, little ones and grown-ups dive into story time and art-making in real museum classrooms. You don’t have to worry about the Florida sun because it all happens under cover.
Come Saturday and you’ll find Family ArtLab, a drop-in space for themed projects inspired by current exhibitions. Supplies are ready, and teaching artists guide each activity. They welcome absolute beginners and work with kids who need extra support.
Their summer camp keeps groups small—just fifteen kids per session—and campers get to display their creations in the Community Gallery. Adult involvement depends on the program, so parents can join in or stand by. Members get free entry and everyone finds the museum easy to explore. It’s all about getting hands messy and imaginations buzzing, without the usual “do not touch” rules.
The Sarasota Children’s Garden
Looking for an outdoor playground that sparks imagination? The Sarasota Children’s Garden is packed with themed play zones like a Pirate Queen ship, a Fairy Garden for tea parties, and a Monster Garden featuring “Snuffy” the dragon. You’ll also find butterfly gardens, tree forts, and a caterpillar-shaped cottage.
Kids can head indoors to a small stage and costume room where they act out stories or just try on funny hats. Admission is $6 for kids three and up, $10 for adults, and free for under-threes. They’re open Tuesday through Sunday with drop-in access to garden programs and crafts led by on-site staff.
Everything is designed for safety and comfort. Rainforest misters and shade structures help battle the heat, non-toxic plantings keep little hands safe, and staff supervise activities closely. Plant lovers or not, families end up digging in and enjoying a simple, well-managed outdoor adventure.
Jumpin Fun Inflata Park
When you step inside Jumpin Fun Inflata Park near Sarasota, you’re greeted by 15,000 square feet of nonstop bouncing. Expect giant bounce pads, battle beams, a challenging Ninja Wall, and the AirRider Zip Rail Coaster stretching 250 feet. Little ones have their own Toddler Zone while teens compete in inflatable jousting. And yes, full-grown adults sign up for the Ultimate Obstacle Course… usually conquering half before they rethink life choices.
Three mornings a week, Toddler Time offers a two-hour slot just for the five-and-under crew and their parents at a pretty reasonable price. Safety is taken seriously: staff patrol constantly, kids under 18 complete waivers, and everyone must wear grip socks (four bucks extra). Glow Nights on weekends turn the park into a blacklight party with music, plus themed deals on weekdays. There’s a snack bar too, so you can grab a quick bite and cold drink to recharge between runs. Open year-round and fully air-conditioned, it’s a perfect escape from scorching heat or unexpected showers.
Sarasota Jungle Gardens
At Sarasota Jungle Gardens, you’ll explore ten acres of classic Florida charm. Jungle trails wind past flamingos strutting just inches away, playful parrots tucked in cages, and curious lemurs peeking from branches. Most attractions are outdoors… great for soaking up sunshine, but there’s an air-conditioned café serving fries and cold drinks if you need a break.
Daily wildlife shows give you a front-row seat to reptiles at 11 AM, a bird presentation at noon, and a “Wildlife Wonder” show at 1 PM. If you can’t get enough, catch another reptile demo at 3 PM. The well-maintained paths are stroller and wheelchair friendly, and kids under three get in free.
Ticket prices might seem steep, but hand-feeding a flamingo or hearing a parrot’s greeting makes it feel worth every penny. Friendly staff are happy to answer questions and snap photos. Whether you’re chasing toddler smiles or adult nature vibes, this garden brings a slice of real Florida up close.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
At Sky Zone Sarasota, bouncing off walls is actually encouraged. The main courts are all trampolines, and there’s a ninja warrior course, foam pits, a basketball dunk zone, and even a zip line. Since everything happens indoors, you won’t sweat under the Florida sun or dash for cover in a sudden storm.
Open Jump sessions let everyone go wild, while Little Leapers is designed for toddlers and preschoolers. SkyCamp runs during school breaks with a mix of jumping, themed experiments, and a Friday pizza party. If parents want a night out, Dash & Dine and Parent’s Night Out let kids stay late with snacks and pizza.
Prices run around $28 to $37 per session, plus extra for the required grip socks. Every staff member is trained in safety rules, they check gear constantly, and they divide areas by age and ability. From wobbly toddlers to hyper tweens, this place keeps everyone covered and entertained.
PopStroke
Ready for a mini golf experience with a twist? PopStroke feels part country club, part sports bar, part playground, all wrapped into two 18-hole courses. The synthetic turf surfaces keep things smooth and consistent, so you’ll know exactly when to blame your swing.
Once you buy a day pass, you can play both courses as many times as you like. The outdoor area also offers lawn games like cornhole, ping-pong, and foosball. When the sun gets too hot, head to the air-conditioned restaurant or relax on the covered patio.
Use the mobile app to track your score and order food, desserts, or famous milkshakes without leaving your game. There’s even a rooftop bar for anyone 21 and up. ADA-friendly paths make sure all guests can join in, and staff walk the grounds to keep things running smoothly. PopStroke balances a laid-back vibe with smart amenities so everyone has a great time.
